Opinion Editorial

by

DJuana L. Jackson

Physical activity, as we know, benefits people positively from a health standpoint, but have you ever thought about how it contributes to other facets of a persons life? Physical activity simply means movement of the body that uses energy. Walking, gardening, briskly pushing a baby stroller, climbing the stairs, playing soccer, or dancing the night away are all good examples of being active. For health benefits, physical activity should be of moderate or vigorous intensity. Physical activity benefits both the mental and physical self. By engaging in any form of physical activity you improve your sense of self, thus promoting social capital (defined as the relationships among people that facilitate productive activity). Our lives are improved by social relationship. It is the essence of which we feel connected to other people and the world. Through relationships that we make we have a chance to experience new opportunities. In regards to physical activity, some people prefer to engage in groups, therefore opening the opportunity to meet people and expand their network of resources (people they know, opportunities had, experiences had, etc.). conclusive Even though the findings are not consistent or definitive for whether social capital is directly related to physical activity, I believe that anything people engage in that involves social interactions promotes social capital. Youre allowing yourself to be vulnerable; youre presenting yourself as a resource, as well as accepting others as a resource, too. As the connections grow, the sense of belonging grows.

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